WEEK ONE
(Romans 1 & 2)
Welcome to week one! This week we dive into the first two chapters of Romans.
As a brief Romans introduction, this letter was written by Paul to the Christians in Rome from the city of Corinth (as in 1 and 2 Corinthians). This is perhaps the most theology contained in one singular book of the Bible. But it’s not just heady, academic reading. Paul always connects theology to the way we actually live!
1. Reread Romans 1:8. In that verse, Paul speaks of how thankful he is for the faith of the Romans. Who comes to mind as someone whose faith you're thankful for? Take a moment and shoot them a text!
2. Take another look at Romans 1:11-12. There, Paul says that he can't wait to impart spiritual gifts to the Christians in Rome. Then, surprisingly, he says that he wants to be mutually encouraged by their faith, too! Paul thought 'regular' Roman Christians could encourage him. In what ways can you encourage those around you?
3. In Romans 1:32, Paul mentions that people not only do wrong things- they "approve of those who practice them." In what ways do you see this in 2023?
4. As I talk about in the above video, Romans 2:1-4 talks about the hypocrisy of us, as humans who also sin, judging others for their sin. In what areas are you tempted to judge rather than, like God does towards us, show patience, kindness and forbearance.
5. Romans 2:29 speaks about receiving praise not from other people, but from God. How are you doing with living for God’s approval rather than people’s?